What Causes Hemorrhoids?
There are several possible causes of Hemorrhoids, although it’s not always easy to determine the cause. Let’s look at some major reasons why people get hemorrhoids. Knowing these can help you make some necessary lifestyle changes and lessen the pain and discomfort of piles.
Hemorrhoids (piles) are veins in your lower rectum and anus that have become swollen. They are similar to varicose veins. They are known as internal hemorrhoids when they develop inside the rectum, and external hemorrhoids when they occur inside the anal area.
According to the Mayo Clinic, almost three-quarters of adults will have piles at some or other time. Fortunately, there are ways you can treat hemorrhoids effectively.
My External Hemorrhoid Won’t Go Away!
Simple lifestyle changes can be a good place to start if you have chronic hemorrhoids. There are also several natural home remedies for hemorrhoids that you can try.
Constipation
Constipation is a leading cause of hemorrhoids. Straining at the toilet puts pressure on the Blood Vessels in the rectal area, causing them to swell. Having a bowel movement can sometimes cause the blood vessels in the area to bleed.
Do you suffer from chronic constipation? You can minimize your chances of getting hemorrhoids by following a constipation-relieving protocol.
Causes of Hemorrhoids In Pregnancy
Pregnancy is another major cause of hemorrhoids. When a woman is pregnant, the growing fetus can put more pressure on the blood vessels in the rectal area. Changes in her hormonal levels can make her blood vessels work harder, causing swelling and irritation.
Hemorrhoids after birth or because of pregnancy are usually temporary. However, it’s worth keeping in mind if you’re planning a family.
Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)
CVI occurs when the valves in the veins of the legs do not work properly, causing swelling in the legs and feet. Sitting or standing for long periods of time can increase pressure on the blood vessels in the rectal area, causing them to swell.
How Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Causes Hemorrhoids
The diarrhea and constipation that come with IBS can cause hemorrhoids, especially when constipation dominates. Diarrhea, however, also irritates the weakened rectal blood vessels.
Do Hemorrhoids Go Away On Their Own?
Any type of strain put on the rectal or anal area can cause hemorrhoids. the delicate veins in that region can become inflamed and give rise to hemorrhoids. By reducing the strain put on those areas you can minimize the possibility of getting hemorrhoids. You can start with a few basic lifestyle changes.
Adjust Your Diet to Avoid Hemorrhoids
Adjust your diet to include foods with high fiber content. Consuming more fibrous foods creates regular stools that can pass from the body more easily. This will result in less strain in the anal area and can therefore reduce the risk and discomfort of hemorrhoids.
High-fiber foods will include:
- Beans, chickpeas and lentils
- Broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower
- Berries
- Avocados
- Whole grains (whole wheat, brown rice and oats)
- Apples
- Dried fruits (prunes, figs and dates)
- Potatoes
- Nuts and seeds (almonds, sunflower seeds)
Avoid processed foods. They may be convenient but they are no longer natural and almost certainly lack fiber. They can cause hardened stools that would increase your risk of hemorrhoids.
Drink More Water!
In addition to including more fiber-rich foods in your diet, you should not neglect your water intake. Aim for at least 4 glasses per day. Don’t substitute with tea or coffee – those substances will dehydrate you instead. The best water you could possibly drink is hydrogen water. It can benefit every organ in your body, and it’s very easy to make.
Drinking sufficient water should loosen your stools and cause less strain on your anal area. This will decrease your risk of developing hemorrhoids.
Fresh fruit juices are good for hydration – they are about 85% water. Make sure you control your intake of fruit juices to avoid consuming too much sugar.
Change Your Toilet Habits. Don’t put off going to the bathroom until you really have to go. Delaying your bathroom visits can allow your stool to harden further while it waits to be expelled. Hard stool necessitates increased straining; this, in turn, places undue stress on the anus, further increasing your risk of hemorrhoids.
You may look forward to the “alone time” you get when going to the toilet. However, sitting there for longer than is necessary can lead to the development of hemorrhoids.
Keep yourself clean. There’s a reason why we have the bidet.
Although using toilet paper alone is fine, some men and women like to have a more thorough cleansing regimen. We now have flushable wipes for men and women that can effectively clean the anal area. They are safe to use in your most sensitive areas.
Exercise, Exercise, Exercise!
Exercising is undoubtedly good for you. So many ailments can be prevented by including some exercise in your life. It stands to reason that, if you’re not living an active lifestyle or exercising regularly, you must be living a sedentary lifestyle.
Sitting for long periods can cause strain to the anal-rectal area. You will know by now that putting strain on the anal area can cause hemorrhoids to develop.
If you have to sit a lot, get up and walk around for a few minutes at least once every hour. Taking a quick break for a drink of hydrogen water will do the world of good.
Exercising regularly can improve blood flow throughout your body. Improved blood circulation can reduce the pressure on the veins surrounding the anus. This can help reduce the development of constipation and hemorrhoids.
No matter what causes hemorrhoids, you can usually avoid the pain, discomfort and bleeding. Make some simple lifestyle and dietary changes. You will find the protocol here. They can help to reduce these unpleasant symptoms and prevent hemorrhoids from happening in the future – and the need for hemorrhoids surgery.
The post What Are the Causes of Hemorrhoids and How Can You Avoid Them? appeared first on Men's Health Space.
